Le Le, one of the Memphis Zoo’s giant pandas, has died.
The zoo announced the death Friday morning, calling the news “devastating.” The cause of death has not been determined. But a medical investigation is pending.
Here’s the zoo’s full announcement:
Memphis Zoo is devastated to announce the passing of giant panda “Le Le.”
Le Le was born July 18th, 1998 and was 25 years old at the time of his passing. Le Le came to Memphis Zoo in 2003. Le Le’s name translates to “happy happy”, and his name perfectly reflected his personality.
Le Le was a happy bear that enjoyed apples, engaging with enrichment, and relaxing while covering himself with freshly shredded bamboo. He had an easy-going personality and was a favorite of all who met and worked with him over the years.
Le Le was adored by his keepers, all of the staff at the Memphis Zoo, as well as the city of Memphis. Over the last 20 years Le Le has delighted millions of guests, served as an exemplary ambassador for his species and remains a shining symbol of conservation partnership with the People’s Republic of China.
At this time, a cause of death has yet to be determined as medical investigation is pending.
